Karnataka schools to offer sex education, cyber hygiene, and child safety lessons

The Karnataka government is set to introduce sex education for students in grades eight to twelve, aimed at providing teenagers with crucial knowledge about the physical, emotional, and hormonal changes during adolescence, said School Education and Literacy Minister Madhu Bangarappa in the Legislative Council.

Medical specialists will run the program twice a week, which will also include counseling sessions twice a year, along with regular health check-ups.

Staff from the Primary Health Centre will educate students about the risks of drug addiction, infectious diseases, and proper hygiene.

In addition to sex education, the government plans to implement cyber hygiene workshops to address issues such as teen pregnancy, early sexual engagement, and digital addiction.

Furthermore, moral education will be made a mandatory subject for students in grades one to ten, with sessions expected to be held twice a week starting in the next academic year.

The curriculum will focus on virtues such as patience, honesty, and integrity.

Police officers will teach students about the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, as part of an effort to raise awareness about child safety.

Students will learn about their legal rights and protections against exploitation through interactive activities.

The government’s comprehensive strategy aims to address the various challenges faced by teenagers, promoting their overall well-being and responsible use of technology.